README File Extension
Readme Format
- File Type readme
- Popularity
- Application Notepad++
- Category Text Files
What is a README file?
Files with the README extension are specifically tied to Readme Format, a Text Files type, and there are 315 files in this category.
README file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. You can open a README file using one of 6 programs, for example Notepad++, Sublime Text and Atom.
Programs that support README files
How to open a README file?
The most common reason why a README file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.
Thanks to their popularity, Notepad++, Sublime Text and Atom are often the go-to programs for managing README files. To install the updated version of Notepad++, simply go to the Notepad++ Team site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.
After setup, the operating system should recognize README files and link them with Notepad++.
Set Notepad++ to open README by default
Change default apps on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired README file to access the file’s context menu;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- Scroll down to the bottom of the window, and there you will find the "Enable" menu. The default selection is "Recommended Programs";
- Choose "All Programs" within this menu and locate Notepad++. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.
Change a default app in Windows
- Start the process by right-clicking on your README file and selecting "Open With". From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- Find the Notepad++ application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
- Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening README files.
Easy README Troubleshooting
README files can sometimes be tricky, but minor software adjustments usually resolve the issues. Refer to the tips below for guidance.
Why does Notepad++ stop responding or crash intermittently?
Lack of regular software updates can cause Notepad++ to crash. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Notepad++ Team products.
Restarting your computer is often an effective solution to resolve various common problems. Therefore, it is recommended to do so before making any changes to the software configuration.
What are the best practices for repairing a README file that has gone bad?
Start a recovery program, open the damaged README file and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair procedure. Please wait patiently for the recovery process to finish as it will automatically repair the damaged text files.
How can I confirm if my README file has been damaged?
Characteristics of corrupted README text files can include:
- Editing the archive in Notepad++ is hampered by poor overall performance;
- Trying to work with the archive in Notepad++ or other programs causes instability or program crashes;
- The file does not open correctly or displays error messages;
- An unexplained increase in the size of the README file;
- The file operation is accompanied by the display of error messages;
How to edit a README file?
To modify README files, you need to install special software that makes it possible to open and edit text files. Online README editors are more restricted compared to software designed for Readme Format.
Best README editors 2026
Based on your described criteria, here is a list of available README editors.
| README Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| TextEdit | Apple | Mac OS | 4.8 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
| Gedit | GNOME | Linux | 4.6 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| Notepad++ | Notepad++ Team | Windows | 4.6 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Sublime Text | Sublime HQ Pty | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| Windows Notepad | Microsoft | Windows | 4.2 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Atom | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews) |